How Do GPS Pet Trackers Work (Australia-wide Coverage)
As a dog owner, it's not uncommon that you may want to let your pooch roam free from the leash during certain activities. Even if your dog is well trained, there's always the possibility that she might get lost or stray away. Especially if your dog is a hunting dog, the possibility of loosing track of where she is can be fatal in some situations. Luckily, modern technology allows us to keep track of our best friend through the usage of GPS tracking. But, how do GPS dog trackers work?💡 If you are considering getting your animal a pet tracker, or already have given your pet one, you may have many questions about how a tracker works. This article will tell you everything you need to know.
The Difference Between Trackers (GPS vs Radio Location)
Before we look at how GPS pet trackers work, it's important that we understand the difference between GPS trackers and radio frequency animal trackers. The GPS tracker for dogs (Australia) uses local cellular network to help you track your dog. The advantages of this are that you're able to use software that gives you the precise location of your dog on a map on your mobile device (iOS or Android), allowing you to not have to hunt for your pet all over the place.Common Misconception! Are Microchips GPS Trackers?
Many people assume that pet trackers and Microchips are one in the same. This a a misconception. A microchip will contain data as to the owners home address, or any other important information. A microchip does not actually track your pet.
DogOn™ GPS Pet Tracker (3G Cellular)
The DogOn tracker for pets is probably the best all-in-one GPS location and activity tracker that you can get in Australia. The tracker is small and compact. The battery lasts for 4-5 days and fully charges in just under an hour. However, like with many GPS dog trackers, there are some drawbacks. All 3G/4G cellular trackers often require a monthly service charge due to the usage of a cellular network. Likewise, a major drawback is that they rely on a cellular network being available, meaning that GPS units won't work in areas that don't receive a signal. While GPS trackers for pets are still useful, and can help find a lost pet in a neighborhood or at the beach, they may not be practical for rural areas with limited cellphone coverage.
How does the DogOn™ GPS Tracking Collar Works?
In terms of how GPS tracking collars work, they typically tend to rely on a proprietary app accessed via your smartphone and Google maps. Most devices will notify the user via text or email with alerts such as when the pet leaves a defined safe zone or when the battery is low. Another nice feature that this tracker has, is that it allows you to contact a help or recovery center that can aid you in locating your lost dog. The actual pet tracking device is typically small and fits right on the collar. Different sizes are made for different breeds for more accurate health tracking and a better fit.
Garmin™ Pet Tracker (Radio Frequency)
The other type of dog tracker is a radio frequency based model. These don't provide a map, but tend to be more accurate and work anywhere with no need for a network. While DogOn's GPS tracker for dogs use a map to show you the dogs location, the Garmin Astro radio frequency collar can help you find the pet if it's hiding in brush due to the location based nature. However, a major drawback of this radio device is that some GPS units (like the DogOn™ tracker for pets) have health tracking features that monitor heart rate and other health related stats for your dog so that you can be sure that you know where he/she is and that he's in good health.
GARMIN ASTRO 430 GPS WITH T5 COLLAR
$935.00 AUD
Sold on Ebay and Amazon Australia